Setting Initial Timing:
In order to change base timing on the system, the ECM has to be entered into the "service mode" using the diagnostic
trouble code (DTC) tool, part number 12489400. This can be accomplished by attaching the DTC tool to the data link con-
nector on the wiring harness.
1. Turn the engine's ignition switch to the off position (Engine not running)
2. Place the DTC tool's test switch in the off position and plug the tool into the data link connector on the wiring harness.
3. Start the engine, and place the DTC tool test switch in the on position.
The IC module will then go to base ignition timing. At this time, the base timing can be adjusted by turning the distributor.
Using a timing light, set base timing at 12° Before Top Dead Center (BTDC).
Initial Engine Break-in:
After the engine has been installed in your vehicle, the base timing has been set, and a sense check has been performed,
i.e. good oil pressure, no fluid leaks, acceptable coolant temperature, etc.
1. The vehicle should then be driven under varying loads and conditions for the first 30 miles, without wide-open throttle or
sustained, high RPM accelerations. NOTE: The ECM is programmed with a "Green Mode" that limits the maximum RPM
during the break-in period. From start up to the end of the first hour the limit is 4000 RPM, for the second hour it is 4500
RPM, and for the third hour it is 5500 RPM.
2. Run five or six medium-throttle accelerations to about 4000 RPM, letting off in gear.
3. Run two or three hard accelerations to about 4000 RPM, letting off in gear.
4. Change the oil and the oil filter, and replace with 5W30 motor oil and a PF1218 ACDelco oil filter. Inspect both the used oil
and filter to ensure that the engine is functioning properly.
5. Drive the next 500 miles under "normal" conditions. Do not run the engine at the maximum rated engine speed of 5500
RPM, and do not expose the engine to extended periods of high loads.
6. Change the oil and filter again.
Additional parts that may be needed:
Flywheel / Flexplate:
Like all GEN1 or GEN1E V8 engines produced since 1986, the RAMJET 350 engine has a 3.00" diameter flywheel flange
bolt pattern. Small block V8 engines produced from 1955 through 1985 had a 3.58" diameter flywheel flange bolt pattern.
This change in bolt circle diameter was made to accommodate a leak-resistant one-piece rear main seal. Due to revisions
in the crankshaft design, a RAMJET 350 engine must have a counterweighted flywheel (or flexplate) for proper balance.
The RAMJET 350 engine includes a 14" manual transmission flywheel, part number 14088648. If you are installing this
engine with an automatic transmission or you want to use a 12 3/4" flywheel, select one of the flywheels or flexplates from
the chart below. Use flywheel bolt part number 839756 (6 required) or flexplate bolt part number 3727207 (6 required).
NOTE: When installing this engine with an automatic transmission, the clutch pilot bearing should be removed. This will
ensure that no interference exists when a torque converter is installed.
GM Part
Outside
Number
Diameter
14088648
14"
14088646
12-3/4"
14088650
12-3/4"
Ramjet 350 Engine
TITLE
ALL INFORMATION WITHIN ABOVE BORDER TO BE PRINTED EXACTLY AS SHOWN ON 8 1/2 x 11
WHITE 16 POUND BOND PAPER. PRINT ON BOTH SIDES, EXCLUDING TEMPLATES.
TO BE UNITIZED IN ACCORDANCE WITH GM SPECIFICATIONS.
RAMJET 350 Engine Manual Transmission Flywheels
Clutch
Starter Ring
Diameter
Gear Teeth
11.0,11.85
168
10.000"
153
10.4"
153
IR 13SE18
13SE18
Notes
For one-piece crank seal
Lightweight nodular iron flywheel, weighs approximately 17 lbs.;
for one-piece crank seal
Standard weight flywheel; for one-piece crank seal
19417614
PART NO.
DATE
Initial Release - Alin Dragoiu
8
SHEET
REVISION
45
OF
AUTH
N/A